Ireland's oil sites become focus of new wildlife study

Ireland's offshore oil exploration fields are the focus of an extensive survey of whales, dolphins and seabirds being undertaken this month by scientists at NUI Cork's Coastal Resources Centre (CRC).

The work will extend up to 360 kilometres offshore from the northern limit of Irish territorial waters to the Porcupine Basin west of the Dingle peninsula, embracing the Erris Trough, Slyne Trough, and Rockall Trough hydrocarbon exploration sites.

Named the Survey in western Irish waters and the Rockall Trough (SIAR), this is a key element of a three-year project undertaken on behalf of the Rockall Studies Group and the Porcupine Studies Group attached to the Petroleum Infrastructure Programme.

This programme was set up in 1997 by the petroleum affairs division of the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources, and involves the major players in oil and gas offshore exploration. Some £300,000 has been earmarked by the two groups for the overall scientific research, making it the most significant study of cetaceans and seabirds ever carried out in Irish waters, according to the CRC.

Dr Oliver O Cadhla of the CRC said the research would provide independent scientific information essential for conservation and management. Over the past year, members of the CRC team have been "hitching" berths on international research vessels and Naval Service patrol ships to gather data.

So far, the team has recorded 15 whale and dolphin species, including a sighting of a rare Northern Right whale - an endangered species. Among the 35 seabird species recorded so far, there have been significant sightings of Wilson's Petrels in summer and Cory's Shearwaters in November, 1999. Puffins are also among the bird species identified.

The work will continue over the Rockall and Porcupine areas off western and southern Ireland until the end of next year.

In a separate initiative, the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) has announced its whale and dolphin sighting scheme, which aims to glean more information on seasonal and geographical distribution of cetaceans around the coast and identify critical habitats for conservation. It also aims to assess the impact of marine activities and to support the Irish whale-watching industry.

Initial sightings have already yielded some fascinating results. Harbour porpoises can be been seen on up to one-third of journeys in good weather on the DART around Killiney Bay in Co Dublin. There is a 50 per cent chance of glimpsing dolphins or porpoises feeding nearby if one sees gannets diving into the sea. Killer whales can also appear off this coastline at any time of year.

The IWDG is encouraging public participation. It can be contacted through Dr Simon Berrow at (065)9052326 or email: SWDF@oceanfree.net